Not really sure about this...I've read that some think it's absolutely crucial, others that it's unnecessary. I will be finding out tomorrow what my own medical insurance might cover abroad, but still not sure if I should get it regardless. Any suggestions of yes or no, and if yes, what company?

With regard to medical coverage, if you do purchase a policy with medical coverage, you may as well buy one where the medical coverage is PRIMARY. You have to pay attention...if the medical coverage is secondary, whatever coverage is provided by your own policy at home must be exhausted first before there's any coverage under your travel policy.

There was a time when we didn't buy travel insurance. Several years ago most of the European countries implemented a new(?) rule.

While I have never heard of it being implemented, it is possible that they ask for proof of insurance when entering the country. I remember contacting either the local Czech or Hungarian consulate and they called me back to confirm this.

They could deny entry based on you not having insurance. They don't want to get stuck with a bill bill should you have a medical issue.

Make sure you have a fair amount of emergency medical and evacuation coverage. It's not expensive and one company that offers it inexpensively is Travelex. You also have several other coverages included such as luggage.

Hi P
>Do we need Travel Insurance for Italy?<

What is it that you wish to insure? Cost of trip, Medical, evacuation, etc

Ira has the right question. AND if you are driving you might want it especially. If you have a large outlay in reservations, you may want it. If you are flying on FF miles, it won't cover that. If you should be hurt badly enough to need evacuation, you do.
As others have said, it isn't expensive.

read my trip report AH Provence. Ins? yes yes yes
if you use miles also insure airfare replacement as companion will pay an obsene amount for return.